(COLORADO) – In 2024, Colorado saw a drastic increase in motorcyclist deaths across the state, coming in at 165 total fatal crashes. This marked the highest number of motorcyclists killed in crashes ever recorded in the state of Colorado, per the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). And, the top location for these fatal motorcycle crashes was El Paso County (26).
An alarming trend for fatal motorcycle crashes was that 73 (44%) of the 165 riders were not wearing a helmet. Helmets are the leading safety measure a rider can take to lower the chances of serious injury or even death when involved in a crash. As of July 23, 2025, motorcycle-involved fatal crashes are at 61, with 29 having no helmet.
- 2020: 140 Deaths, 74 No Helmet
- 2021: 137 Deaths, 76 No Helmet
- 2022: 149 Deaths, 76 No Helmet
- 2023: 135 Deaths, 68 No Helmet
- 2024: 165 Deaths, 73 No Helmet
- 2025 (Up to 7/23/25): 61 Deaths, 29 No Helmet
Two of the highest contributing factors to these numbers are speed and intoxication. 20% of 2024’s motorcycle fatalities involved impairment. Impairment is not just alcohol; it includes marijuana, prescription medication, or any drug that can affect the rider’s ability and judgment to drive on Colorado roadways safely.
As Colorado approaches the Autumn months, the Colorado State Patrol urges all motorists, not just motorcyclists, to exercise an increase in precautions to lower the number of fatal crashes involving motorcycles, as these riders account for nearly one-quarter of all fatalities on a year-to-year basis, but are only 3% of roadway motorists.
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the protection of the Governor and other dignitaries, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more. For additional information, visit us online at Colorado State Patrol or follow us on X, Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.